Easy Apple Spice Cake Using Box Cake Recipe Box Cake Mix
Apple spice cake made from a box cake mix is a wonderful way to enjoy a comforting and flavorful dessert with minimal effort. Combining the convenience of a ready-made cake mix with the warm, aromatic spices and fresh apple pieces results in a moist, tender cake that tastes like it was made from scratch. The subtle sweetness of apples blends perfectly with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, creating a cake that feels cozy and satisfying, especially during cooler months or festive occasions.

Using a box cake mix as the base saves time without sacrificing taste or texture. It allows home bakers of all skill levels to whip up a delicious cake quickly. Adding fresh ingredients like grated apples, cinnamon, and warm spices transforms a simple vanilla or spice cake mix into something special and unique. This approach is perfect for busy families, last-minute celebrations, or those who want to enjoy homemade flavors without complicated steps.
Apple spice cake also lends itself to many variations. Whether topped with a creamy frosting, dusted with powdered sugar, or enjoyed plain with a cup of tea, it remains a favorite comfort food. The moistness from the apples keeps the cake soft for days, making it ideal for sharing or storing. In this article, you will find detailed instructions, ingredient tips, nutritional information, and ways to customize your apple spice cake using a box cake mix so that every bite is delicious and memorable.
Ingredients Needed
To make apple spice cake with a box cake mix, you will need a combination of the cake mix itself and fresh ingredients to add moisture and flavor. Here is a table of commonly used ingredients along with their approximate calorie counts per serving:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Box cake mix (spice or vanilla) | 1 package (15.25 oz) | 1300 (whole cake) |
| Apples (grated or finely chopped) | 2 medium | 190 |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 teaspoons | 12 |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/2 teaspoon | 3 |
| Ground cloves | 1/4 teaspoon | 2 |
| Vegetable oil | 1/2 cup (120 ml) | 960 |
| Eggs | 3 large | 210 |
| Water or apple juice | 1 cup (240 ml) | 60 |
| Optional: chopped walnuts | 1/2 cup | 200 |
Fresh apples add natural sweetness and moisture, while the spices deepen the flavor profile. Using apple juice instead of water enhances the fruity aroma. Walnuts provide a nice crunch but can be omitted or replaced with pecans or almonds.
Step by Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the box cake mix, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Whisk these together to evenly distribute the spices throughout the mix.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add vegetable oil, eggs, and water (or apple juice) to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed for about two minutes until the batter is smooth.
- Incorporate Apples: Fold the grated or finely chopped apples gently into the batter. If using walnuts, fold them in now as well. Mixing by hand ensures the apples stay evenly distributed without overmixing the batter.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing. This helps it set and makes cutting easier.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Nutritional Information
Apple spice cake is a moderate calorie dessert, rich in carbohydrates and fats primarily from the cake mix and oil. The addition of fresh apples boosts fiber and vitamin content, while nuts contribute healthy fats and protein. On average, one serving (1/12th of the cake) contains approximately 300 to 350 calories depending on the exact ingredients and portion size.
While not a low-calorie treat, this cake offers the benefit of fresh fruit and spices that provide antioxidants and other nutrients. Portion control and pairing with light accompaniments like fresh fruit or yogurt can keep the dessert balanced.

Serving Suggestions
Apple spice cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic dessert.
- Enjoy slices alongside a cup of coffee or chai tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Garnish with additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flair.
- For breakfast or brunch, pair with fresh fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait.
Easy Apple Spice Cake Using Box Cake Recipe Box Cake Mix
Course: Blog12
servings15
minutes35
minutes300
kcalIngredients
IngredienttQuantitytApproximate Calories
Box cake mix (spice or vanilla)t1 package (15.25 oz)t1300 (whole cake)
Apples (grated or finely chopped)t2 mediumt190
Ground cinnamont2 teaspoonst12
Ground nutmegt1/2 teaspoont3
Ground clovest1/4 teaspoont2
Vegetable oilt1/2 cup (120 ml)t960
Eggst3 larget210
Water or apple juicet1 cup (240 ml)t60
Optional: chopped walnutst1/2 cupt200
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together box cake mix, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Add vegetable oil, eggs, and water (or apple juice). Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
- Fold in grated or chopped apples and optional walnuts gently.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes. Test doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool completely before slicing and serving.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Use apple juice instead of water for extra apple flavor.
Add raisins or dried cranberries for sweetness and texture.
Top with cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze for a special touch.
Store cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a regular vanilla cake mix instead of spice cake mix?
Yes, vanilla cake mix works well. Just increase the spices slightly to mimic the warm flavors of a spice cake.
Can I make this cake gluten free?
Look for gluten free box cake mixes available in stores. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten free as well.
How long does the cake stay fresh?
Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Can I substitute the oil?
You can replace vegetable oil with melted butter or applesauce for a different flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Apple spice cake made from a box cake mix offers an easy way to enjoy a classic, comforting dessert with the added goodness of fresh apples and warm spices. Its moist texture and rich flavors make it perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply as a sweet treat any day of the week. By following the simple steps and tips provided, anyone can create a delicious cake that tastes homemade with minimal effort. Whether served plain, frosted, or topped with nuts, this apple spice cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
